Publication: Visual outcome of laser treatment in diabetic retinopathy
Date
2007
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Objective: To determine the visual outcome of laser treatment in diabetic retinopathy.
Design: Prospective, non-comparative case series.
Materials and methods: A total of 80 eyes of 50 patients with diabetic retinopathy in different stages were
photocoagulated using diode green laser. Focal laser only was given in 46 eyes and pan retinal photocoagulation
only was given in 29 eyes while 3 eyes received focal laser and pan retinal photocoagulation. One eye was given
grid laser only and one eye received both grid and focal laser. The best corrected visual acuity was noted and fundus
examination was carried out prior to laser therapy and at the last follow-up and results were compared.
Results: Non- proliferative diabetic retinopathy was present in 76%. Following laser treatment, best corrected visual
acuity improved in 52.50%, remained static in 35% and deteriorated in 12.5%. Maculopathy improved in 52%,
remained static in 6% and deteriorated in 2% in right eyes while there was no maculopathy in 40% in right eyes.
Similarly, maculopathy improved in 38% and remained same in 10% while 52% had no maculopathy in left eyes.
After laser treatment, NVD (OD) regressed in 6% and remained unchanged in 4%. Similarly, NVE (OD) regressed
in 18% and remained unchanged in 4% and NVE (OS) regressed in 18% and remained unchanged in 2% following
laser therapy.
Conclusion: Timely and adequate laser treatment helps in saving the vision in patients with diabetic retinopathy.
Key words: Diabetic retinopathy, Diabetic maculopathy, Diode laser, Pan retinal photocoagulation, Visual outcome
Description
Shrestha S 1, Karki DB2, Byanju R 3, Malla OK 4, Shrestha SM5, Pradhananga CL6
Professor NAMS 2, Professor NAMS 3, Fellow of NAMS 4, Bio-statistician5, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Nepal Eye Hospital6